Reference 25654 replaced the first Royal Oak Perpetual calendar reference 25554 in 1987 and was produced until 1998 in 315 pieces in steel, 430 pieces in yellow gold, 68 pieces in steel and yellow gold and 38 in platinum. It differs from its sibling for a slightly thicker case thickness (8.25mm vs the 7.5mm of ref. 25554) meant to improve its water resistance capabilities.

While many materials and metals have been employed for the construction of watches - from the most mundane as base metal or plastic, to the most exotic such as forged carbon, titanium, ceramic and so forth - there is no denying that no material communicates power, luxury and gravitas as unmistakably as yellow gold. Such a conclusion is apparent when admiring the present timepiece.

Fully constructed out of 18K gold, and with a champagne dial to boost, this example of ref. 25654BA is undeniably a statement piece like few others. It is furthermore offered in exceptional condition, with all its edges and bevels sharp and well defined.

The hint of oxidation present on the case on the one hand amplifies the warm glow of the luxurious metal, on the other hand testifies how little the watch has been used.

The piece was last serviced in 2016, on which occasion it received the accompanying Certificat d’Authenticité et d’Exclusivité and it has obviously been hardly used ever since.